Bicycle Helmets

Every year, thousands of children are injured in bike crashes. The good news is that many serious injuries can be prevented by wearing a helmet.

Bicycle Helmets

Riding bikes is a great way for families to have fun and spend time together outside. However, riding a bike can also be dangerous. Every year, thousands of children are injured in bike crashes. The good news is that many serious injuries can be prevented by wearing a helmet. Before your kids take off on their bikes this summer, make sure they have a helmet that fits them. It will protect their heads and could save their lives.

HOW TO RIDE SAFELY

Ride with traffic, not against it. Stay to the right.

Follow all traffic signs. Stop at red lights and stop signs.

Walk the bike across busy streets. Look left, right, and left again before crossing.

Do not ride at dusk or after dark.

Children younger than 1 year of age should not be on bikes. Their neck muscles may not be strong enough to control their heads during a sudden stop, especially with the added weight of a helmet.

Children younger than 10 should ride on a sidewalk or bike path instead of the street. Most young children are not able to make safe choices in traffic.

Make sure the seat and handlebars of the bike fit your child.

Know a child’s limits. Tell your child where and when he can ride.

The most important step you can take to prevent bike-related brain injuries is to buy your child a helmet and make sure he wears it every time he rides!

WHY ARE HELMETS IMPORTANT?

Every year in the U.S., almost 400,000 children visit the emergency department with bike-related injuries.

The most common injuries are bruises, cuts, and broken bones, but the most serious are head injuries.

9 out of 10 bike riders who die in crashes are not wearing helmets.

Wearing a bike helmet can lower the risk of brain injury by up to 88 percent.

WHERE CAN I GET A HELMET?

Helmets cost as little as $10 and can be found at retail stores.

Some community programs offer free or discounted helmets for families who cannot afford one.

Content provided by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s